LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- After meeting Monday and Tuesday, the Louisville Metro Council Labor and Economic Development Committee approved a two-year contract for Louisville Metro Police officers and sergeants.
On Monday, people had the opportunity for public comment with the majority voicing concern about accountability. And Tuesday, the committee asked questions of police leaders, including Chief Erika Shields, ultimately voting to approve the contract.
The River City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 614 fought for more competitive pay during negotiations. The previous version of the contract, reviewed in September, was voted down. It offered a 3% raise in 2023. This new version offers a 6% raise in 2023.
In November, 66% of the FOP voted in favor of it. New officers now make about $45,000. Under the new contract, by July 2023, officers' salaries would range from $52,000 to nearly $81,000 for an officer at the end of his or her career.
"I think this contract is a step in that direction, and hopefully we will see the benefits as we move on," FOP President Ryan Nichols said Tuesday after the vote.
Keisha Dorsey (D-3), chair of the Labor and Economic Development Committee, voiced her apprehension, adding that this version is a start on progress.
"This contract will pass. It has the votes and it has the support," Dorsey said. "And it will pass, because these 26 members have faith that you all will do what you need to do to make this work for our city."
She asked questions of Shields regarding the city's perception of police. Shields said it starts internally and she is hopeful relationships with the community and trust in LMPD can be mended.
Dorsey passionately addressed the fragile system in front of the council and LMPD to close out before the vote.
"We are depending on you after the passage to make this work for us, because we can't take anything else," Dorsey said. "We will be factioned and we will be broken, and I hope that everyone in this room understands that if that happens this city may be torn in a way that may be irreversible."
The full council needs to approve the contract before it can go into effect. The next scheduled meeting is Thursday, Dec. 16.
Related Stories:
- Public shares opinions on proposed LMPD officer and sergeant contract
- FOP members approve tentative contract for Louisville's police officers
- Metro Council votes to approve new contract for LMPD captains, lieutenants
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